Cancer Treatment: Infection and Chemotherapy

The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the type of chemotherapy and the amount given. Anticipating and managing side effects can help to minimize them and provide the best possible experience for the person receiving chemotherapy.

Infection and chemotherapy

As each person's individual medical profile and diagnosis is different, so is his or her reaction to treatment. Side effects may be severe, mild, or absent. Be sure to discuss with your cancer care team the possible side effects of treatment before the treatment begins.

Many chemotherapy drugs can damage the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. White blood cells are the cells that fight many types of infections, which means that chemotherapy can leave you at risk for infection. The white blood cell most critically impacted by chemotherapy is called the neutrophil. It fights bacterial infections.The bacteria that cause most infections are normally found on your skin and in your mouth, intestines, and genital tract. Sometimes, the source of an infection is unknown. Infections can happen to people even when they are very careful. Individuals who are fighting infections are sometimes given a medication to boost their white blood cell count after chemotherapy.

How can I help prevent infections?

Most doctors will offer the following suggestions for reducing your risk of infection:

Wash your hands frequently throughout the day, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and after touching animals. Use antibacterial hand gel often.

Clean your rectal area gently but thoroughly after each bowel movement. Consult your doctor if the area becomes irritated or if you develop hemorrhoids.

Avoid people who are sick with communicable (contagious) illnesses, including a cold, the flu, measles, or chickenpox.

Avoid crowds.

Stay away from children who have recently been given "live virus" vaccines, such as chickenpox, as they may be contagious to people with a low blood cell count. Oral polio vaccine (OPV) is also a live virus. While it is not currently used in the United States, it is still used in other countries. Because of that, if you travel internationally, you should also stay away from children who have recently been given oral polio vaccine.

Avoid accidents and injuries. Be careful not to cut yourself in any way, including the cuticles of your nails. Use an electric shaver instead of a razor to avoid cutting yourself while shaving.

Clean cuts and scrapes immediately with warm, soapy water and an antiseptic.

To protect your mouth and gums, brush your teeth after meals and before bedtime.

Do not squeeze or scratch pimples.

Take a warm (not hot) bath, shower, or sponge bath every day. Pat your skin dry; do not rub it.